The 5-String Studio
5-String Studio is a full digital multi-track studio focused on capturing high quality acoustic recordings. Using the latest in digital technology coupled with a wide array of audio equipment, the studio has the ability to capture the best in acoustic sound. In capturing the true sound of the best instruments, there is less work "fixing" the sound in the post-production phase of the project. This approach comes out of recording live performances of classical, jazz and folk music. When recording a concert for broadcast, there is only one shot at getting the best sound possible.
5-String Studio is fully equipped to do "location" recording. With fully moble rigs we often record at performance halls allowing us to capture a live performance or concert as well as recording projects where the music wants to capture the sound of the performance in a real hall.
With in-studio recording projects we take the same "live performance" approach, capturing the best performance and sound that the artist generates. Although we have the benefit of multiple takes, post production work is made easier with a great performance and great sound. Even when recording a solo performance, we often use multiple microphones to allow us to capture the full and rich sound of a performance or take.
Post-production work includes editing, mixing, sound equalization (EQ) and mastering. With editing a selected take or performance to remove extraneous noises (common in live performance settings) as well as to fix performance mistakes. The mixing process allows for building the best in a stereo image for the recording. In mixing it is important to anticipate all of the listening environments and make the mix work for the majority of these. A common technique for most studio recordings is to "pan" tracks so that there is wide separation in the stereo image. This is great if you are listening on headphones or on a high-quality stereo system at home, but if you are listening in the car, chances are that you will lose some of the sound because you are not in a optimum listening environment. The trick to good post-production work is to make the appropriate compromises to ensure that the best sound is available for all listening envrionments.
Sound equilization (EQ) is designed to get the best sound qualities out of the project. Unfortunately in the real world, not all instruments sound great all the time and when recording you are dealing with the sound the microphone captures. Even good microphones have limits in sound reproduction. Microphone placement will also have an effect on the tonal quality that is captured. During the EQ process, we can adjust the sound of each track to enhance the sound qualities of the performance. Additionally, we want the sound quality throughout the recording to be consistent; therefore during the EQ phase we are balancing the overall recording to ensure that the recording sounds seamless.
Mastering is the final step in a recording project. The goal of the mastering process is review the whole recording, making sure that the overall sound is the best it can and that all of the levels are set appropirately for continuous listening. Once the mastering process is complete, the recording is ready for manufacturing or broadcast.